Mining Equipment model showing side platforms, stairs, ladder and railings being built by Don Campbell from Gaylord, Michigan.

Mining Equipment model showing side platforms, stairs, ladder and railings being built by Don Campbell from Gaylord, Michigan., originally uploaded by Don Campbell Models.

Alpine Village, Otsego County- Todays picture shows the next progress as Toy builder Don Campbell slowly makes progress on his next monster sized steel model. Don has gained fame around the world for his very unique style of one of a kind all steel metal works of art. No one else in the world has built so many one of a kind large scale models built 100% by him in his very small workshop with no lathes or computer laser cutting machines.
Every part is hand shaped drilled bolted to achieve these outstanding works of art. Don was asked if he has a favorite model and just when he thinks he has one in mind , he changes his mind and says he has many favorite ones. He says each one is special and a part of him as remembering he sketched out a few lines on a piece of paper for each one and saw them all take shape often from his imagination and a lot of guessing.
When asked what is Don going to do in the future to top this latest huge mining machine model he says he just takes it one day at a time. But Don says each new model is just as exciting as the last because he knows it will be something he never made before.
He did say his next project is another unique model. It will be a large scale dragline bucket with a glass top that will end up being a very special coffee table.
Another project on his list is a 1/12th scale Euclid Scraper with double or triple bowls. He says that would be a very exciting model to build too.
There is no doubt when you see what Don has on his workbench when he begins a mega machine model it is just mind boggling the thought that goes into completing it in his mini sized workshop.
This latest model will not fit through the shop door and will have to be dissassembled and reassembled after painting.
One thing is for sure that this Toy Builder from the little Alpine Village nestled in Otsego County is a one of a kind artist himself.